LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - The Diocese of Little Rock says Bishop Anthony Taylor has met with Mercy Health Ministry board members about his concerns over the proposed sale of Mercy Hot Springs to Capella Healthcare.

The diocese said in a statement Friday that Taylor relayed the Vatican's request that the board explore establishing a link with other Catholic institutions in order to continue operating the hospital or to further investigate selling the hospital to another Catholic institution.

The proposed sale of the hospital formerly known as St. Joseph Mercy Medical Center requires approval of the Vatican because of its relationship with the Catholic Church. Taylor has said he has "serious reservations" because of the potential negative impact on medical care for the poor and on the Hot Springs community.